Filing for personal bankruptcy is nothing kid around about. Do not file unless you fully understand the consequences and implications. The advice in this article will get you off to a good start. Deciding whether or not to file for bankruptcy is a big decision. Proper and thorough research can alleviate some of that pressure.
If you suspect that bankruptcy filing may be a reality, don’t try to discharge all your debt in advance by emptying your retirement or saving accounts. Unless there is no other choice a retirement account should not be used. If you have to use a portion of your savings, make sure that you save some to ensure that you are financially secure in the future.
People generally mostly feel the need to get a bankruptcy filed for when they have more money owed than they can get. If you’re in this situation, learn about the laws where you live. Different states have different laws regarding bankruptcy. Your home and other major assets may be protected in your state, while they are vulnerable in other states. It is important to be cognizant of the laws in your state before filing for bankruptcy.
Always be honest with the information you give about your finances. Withholding or lying about certain information can seriously worsen your financial situation. It could lead to being unable to file for bankruptcy or even legal trouble.
Unsecured Credit
Getting unsecured credit post-bankruptcy will likely be difficult. Since it is important that you work to rebuild your credit, you should instead think about applying for a secured card. This will show other people that you’re serious when it comes to having your credit record in order. After some time passes they may be willing to offer you unsecured credit.
Do some research online about personal bankruptcy to get a better idea of what this procedure implies. The United States Run a quick Internet search to find out all the different agencies you should be contacting or visiting via the web to find out what you can. You need to spend some time gathering valuable information so you can file your bankruptcy with confidence.
Before filling for bankruptcy, determine which assets will be exempted from seizure. Check the bankruptcy laws in your state to find out if certain items are excluded from your bankruptcy filing. You need to read the exemptions for your state, so you know what property you can protect. Without reading the list, you may be shocked at which possessions can be taken from you.
Do not attempt to conceal any assets when filing for bankruptcy because you may be penalized when they are discovered. Penalties may include fines, imprisonment or denial of the filing. Lay everything out on the table so that you and your lawyer can devise a plan to get you out of this mess.
Avoid paying for a consultation with the bankruptcy attorney, but do ask many questions. Most attorneys offer free consultations, so meet with a number of them before you retain one. Only choose a lawyer if you feel like your questions were answered. It’s isn’t necessary to make a choice right away. So, this gives you plenty of time to consult with several attorneys.
Don’t pay tax requirements with your credit cards with the thought of starting the bankruptcy process afterward, without doing your research first. Generally, this type of debt is not covered by bankruptcy filing, and you will still have a large debt owing to the IRS. Remember that if you can discharge the tax you can discharge the debt. So, there is no reason to use your credit card if it will be discharged in the bankruptcy.
Think carefully about your different options before filing for bankruptcy. For example, consumer credit counseling programs can help you by renegotiating your debts with your creditors into payments that you can afford. You may also find success in negotiating lower payment arrangements yourself, but be certain to get any arrangements with creditors in writing.
Protect your house. Bankruptcy filings do not necessarily mean that you have to lose your house. If your home has significantly depreciated in value or you’ve taken a second mortgage, it may be possible to retain possession of your home. You are still going to want to check into homestead exemption either way just in case.
Interest Rates
Keep working to improve your situation. You can often have property returned to you. Autos, jewelry and even electronics that have been repossessed, could be returned. If your property has been repossessed less than 90 days prior to your bankruptcy filing, there is a good chance you can get it back. Get help from your lawyer to file a petition so you can get your items back.
Investigate other alternatives before resorting to bankruptcy. Instead of rushing into bankruptcy, a good idea is too speak with an attorney who may be able to get your interest rates reduced or help get you on a debt repayment program. If foreclosure looms, think about getting your loan plan modified. The lender may be willing to reduce interest rates, eliminate late charges or extend the life of the loan. After all is said and done, your creditors will still want their money. For this reason, you may wish to investigate debt repayment programs in lieu of bankruptcy programs.
Make sure you consider implications of bankruptcy before filing for Chapter 7. You may have your responsibility for your portion of the loan discharged under Chapter 7. Creditors, however, will hold the co-signer liable for the entire balance of the debt.
Before you file for bankruptcy, make sure you understand your rights. Occasionally, debt collectors will attempt to convince you that your debt isn’t eligible for bankruptcy. There are few debts that can’t be discharged. If the debt collector tries to tell you that your debts, which do not fall into those categories, cannot be bankrupted, take a note of it, look up the debt type, and report them to your state’s attorney general office.
Find a bankruptcy attorney who offers free consultations, and ask lots of questions. Almost all lawyers will give a free consultation, so meet with more than one before making a decision on whom to hire. Make your decision after all of your questions have been answered. You don’t have to make your decision right after this consultation. Take the time to meet with a number of attorneys.
Make sure you act at an appropriate time. When you time things right, it does you good, especially when you’re filing for personal bankruptcy. Sometimes, you may need to file quickly; however, at other times, you should wait until the worst is over. Speak to a bankruptcy lawyer to determine what the ideal timing is for your personal situation.
You can easily see that there are multiple ways to handle personal bankruptcy. Avoid being overwhelmed by too much information. Take the time you need to think clearly and analyze the information. You are sure to make thoughtful and beneficial decisions this way!